Preserving Benton County's Heritage Since 1949
Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery
October 14, 2026 • 5:30–7:30 PM • 202 2nd Ave S, Sauk Rapids
Explore the cemetery by lantern light and uncover the stories of those who came before us — including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early Benton County settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach. Tickets are $10.
Sauk Rapids, Benton Co., Minn.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1796 George Washington's farewell address as president
• 1934 Bruno Hauptmann arrested for kidnapping the Linbergh baby
Minnesota
• On April 3, 1859, the Oscar F. Jackson acquittal helped trigger what became known as the Wright County War.
• On April 3, 1970, the Minneapolis music club later known as First Avenue opened as the Depot.
Benton County
• All schoolchildren in Benton County were tested for tuberculosis in 1942.
• Sauk Rapids was separately organized as a village in 1881.
📷 Picture of the Day
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